Lexgard Natural MHG MB

Lexgard® Natural MHG MB (INCI: Methylheptylglycerin) is a 100% natural, patent-pending multifunctional glyceryl ether. Derived from sustainably sourced castor oil and Mass Balance certified palm oil, it is a methyl-branched C8 molecule designed to replace petroleum-based benchmarks like Ethylhexylglycerin. It delivers a unique “triple-threat” of benefits: natural preservation boosting, targeted odour control, and superior anti-soaping aesthetics in silicone-free emulsions.

Key Benefits and Performance

• Microbial Control: Acts as a bacteriostatic agent against bacteria and yeasts. Its amphiphilic structure increases cell permeability, while its hydroxyl groups draw water out of microbial cells, causing them to collapse.

• Microbiome Friendly: It is bacteriostatic rather than bactericidal, meaning it inhibits growth without aggressively wiping out the skin’s natural beneficial microbiome.

• Odour Control (Deodorant Active): Demonstrated MIC against Gram-positive bacteria (using S. aureus as a proxy for S. hominis), performing comparably to synthetic Ethylhexylglycerin.

• Elite Anti-Soaping Aesthetics: At the maximum recommended concentration, it significantly reduces the “soaping effect” (white streaks) in O/W emulsions. Panelist studies show it can outperform Dimethicone, offering a high-performance, natural, silicone-free alternative across anionic, nonionic, and cationic bases.

Formulation Guidelines

• Broad-Spectrum Strategy: Must be combined with a fungistatic/mould control component for a complete preservation system.

• pH Optimization: A pH of 5.0 is specifically recommended for shampoo and cleanser applications to maximize stability and performance